Moving into a new home is an exciting and busy time, so it can be easy to overlook home security. In this blog, our managing director Anthony Neary is sharing his home security checklist for first-time buyers, so you can keep your house as safe as possible.
Moving into a new home is an exciting and busy time, so it can be easy to overlook home security. In this blog, our managing director Anthony Neary is sharing his home security checklist for first-time buyers, so you can keep your house as safe as possible.
Why is home security important for first-time buyers?
Our independent survey found that more than two fifths of homes bought in the past year were by first-time buyers, but a staggering 65% admit to not knowing what security to put in place on arrival at their new home!
With 362,461 first-time buyers finding a property over the last 12 months, a 71% increase from a decade ago, it’s important to put the correct precautions in place in order to look after valuables.
How can I increase my home security?
Moving into your first property is a massive milestone and one of the happiest times, but these properties are also just as easy to target for burglars, despite your home honeymoon phase. It’s therefore imperative to put some serious precautions in place, and this can be done much cheaper than you would expect. Keep reading for our tips on how to keep your home secure.
1. Secure your entry points
When you move into a new home, one of the first changes to make is to swap door locks so that anyone who lived there previously will no longer have access to the property. Two thirds of homeowners fail to do this when they move into a new home, which leaves them vulnerable to the unknown. Burglars will look for weak entry points, so it’s important to make sure that the lock is sturdy and secure with deadbolt or cylinder locks. Browse our selection of door locks: Door Locks.
2. Install a burglar alarm
The biggest deterrent for a burglar is seeing an alarm system in place. No burglar is willing to wake their victim up, enabling them to get caught in the act. Despite this, our survey found 60% of UK households don’t have a working burglar alarm. The previous owners may have had one which can make it easier to set up but learn how it works so you can use it immediately and effectively. It’s important to ensure it isn’t a dummy alarm as thieves are savvy to this and will likely still consider your home a target. Explore our home alarm systems today: Burglar Alarms
3. Create visual aids
CCTV is comfortably the second most likely feature to deter thieves, as clear images will make it much more likely the police will identify criminals. Whilst a CCTV kit may not seem top of the list of priorities for new homeowners due to set-up and price point, it can prove invaluable over time. A popular cheaper alternative is video doorbells, as the image evidence at a key entryway will make burglars look for the next property without one.
4. Talk with neighbours
When moving into a new area, it is likely you will have looked at crime rate. But, check if there is a neighbourhood watch in place so that you can stay up to date. If you can’t find one, speak with neighbours as they will be able to update you. Nowadays, there will probably be regional Facebook groups or WhatsApp conversations that allow for real-time updates for any suspicious activity or community updates in general, so be sure to join them and simultaneously build and strengthen relationships with your neighbours.
5. Consider garden security
Often an afterthought is the outside of a property, especially for those who move in colder months. Whilst busy enjoying your home and new garden, be sure to keep it intact to prevent hiding spots, and ensure items that can be used to make a break-in easier are always put away, such as screwdrivers or hammers from a little DIY. Keep garden fences and gates fixed and secure with padlocks to prevent entry. Illuminate the perimeter with security lights as burglars love to work in darkness so will hate being put in the spotlight. View our security lights: Security Lights
Introduce this home security checklist for first-time buyers when you move into your new house. We’re the UK number one supplier of safes and locks online. Founded in 2003, we’ve developed our offering to become the go-to destination for security products, with ranges to suit all tastes, needs and budgets. Browse our full home security range: Home Security
